Day One - Monday, August 8

A crystal blue sky and warm sun opened the 13th UNDE Triennial Convention in Halifax. National President John MacLennan welcomed the delegates, and introduced the National Executive, staff and honoured guests. He went on to highlight victories over the last three years but cautioned members about the challenges of the future – privatizing, downsizing and base closures. Of particular concern are the recent Public Service Modernization Act and the ongoing reorganization of the Canadian Forces.

Brother Dave Lake challenged the Chair to have the appeal to the Trusteeship of Local 641 addressed as the first order of business. The Floor voted in favour of dealing with the matter first off Tuesday morning after everyone had a chance to digest the documentation.

Guest Speaker Captain (N) Larry Hickey spoke about the new defence policy being brought in by the Chief of Defence Staff in conjunction with the Minister of National Defence and Prime Minister. He emphasized the important role to be played by UNDE members.

The General Committee led off the session with their report in priority order. The opening resolution to get rid of regional zones elicited much supportive feedback and discussion. Interestingly, more General Resolutions were covered than ever before in the past.

The highlight of the afternoon was a heated debate over the relative merits of binding arbitration versus conciliation/right to strike. Garry Robinson argued eloquently in favour of the former, based on his past history of having participated in every public service strike since 1975 – with less than positive results. More often than not, members were legislated back to work with no more “gain” than a loss of wages. Brian Molsberry brought down the house with an impassioned speech supporting conciliation because the right to withhold labour has historically been the only real bargaining chip that we have. He cautioned that “Trade Unionists from the past would be turning over in their graves if we voluntarily give up that right.” The doors were tiled several times, the Chair was challenged, but in the long run, the Floor supported the recommendation to “give binding arbitration a chance!”

Seasoned veterans mingled with brand new faces. Throughout the day an overwhelming appreciation of gathering together with so many fellow Sisters and Brothers from all across our country ruled supreme. First time observer, Kevin Marchand, was so impressed by proceedings that he felt “despite the costs, UNDE can’t afford not to hold a convention every year.”